Moving from Fresno to Winston-Salem (2026)
Winston-Salem has a COL index of 87 vs 99 for Fresno (100 = US average). You'd pay about 12% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Winston-Salem to match your Fresno lifestyle
Based on the 12% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Fresno | Equivalent in Winston-Salem |
|---|---|
| $40K | $35,152 |
| $50K | $43,939 |
| $60K | $52,727 |
| $75K | $65,909 |
| $80K | $70,303 |
| $100K | $87,879 |
| $120K | $105,455 |
| $150K | $131,818 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Fresno vs Winston-Salem
| Expense | Fresno | Winston-Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,159 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,450 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $380 | $361 |
| Transport | $72 | $45 |
| Utilities | $142 | $150 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,050 | $2,543 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Winston-Salem cheaper than Fresno?
Yes. Winston-Salem has a cost of living index of 87 vs 99 for Fresno (100 = US average). That's about 12% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Fresno to Winston-Salem?
On a $75K salary, moving from Fresno to Winston-Salem could save roughly $193/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,316/year.
What salary do I need in Winston-Salem to match my Fresno lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fresno, you'd need roughly $65,909/year in Winston-Salem. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only